Budget FAQs

How is the annual operating budget set?

Boards and committees of the church, working closely with staff members, develop their annual budget requests in the spring each year. These requests are submitted to the Board of Administration and Finance, which works closely with the church administrator to bring proposed expenses into balance with anticipated sources of revenues.

A balanced budget proposal is submitted to the Executive Committee for review and approval, usually during the summer, and then to the Board of Deacons for approval in the fall. AHCC's fiscal year begins on January 1.

How is the annual goal for the Every Member Canvass determined?

The goal is derived from an analysis of how much funding will be necessary in the coming year in order to support the plans and priorities identified by AHCC's pastoral and program staff, provide competitive compensation packages for staff, pay expenses associated with operating and maintaining a large and historic building, and assure that AHCC remains a source of significant benevolence giving to organizations in the community.

What percentage of the budget is funded by personal contributions (pledges) from AHCC members?

70%. It is by far the most significant and most critical source of operating income. It funds everything we do at the church. Every dollar counts!

By how much does the average pledge need to increase to meet our 2009 balanced budget goal?

If members who pledged last year increase their pledges between 2.5% and 5% we expect to meet our overall goal and have a balanced budget. We also are hoping that individuals and families that did not pledge last year will want to pledge their support for the 2009 budget.

What percentage of AHCC members (pledging units) participated in the EMC last year?

80%, and we are grateful for every single pledge. However, our goal for an Every Member Canvass is that 100% of our members - every member - will participate.

Why do we have to pledge our support rather than just making contributions during the course of the year during the offertory?

Pledges made in the fall before a new fiscal year begins (on January 1 for AHCC) allows the church's leadership to budget with confidence for the coming year. It is essential to know how much income can be expected before one makes commitments regarding expenses.

How much of my pledge supports the outreach programs of AHCC?

Approximately 15%. In 2008 AHCC made grants totaling almost $300,000 to support 30 different organizations making a difference in our community.

How much of AHCC's 2009 budget will support the music and arts programs of the church?

About $271,000. Supporting music and the arts, which we cherish as a window to the Creator, is a central commitment of this church. At every service, and many times in between, our souls are nourished by this investment.

Do I have options in terms of how I fulfill my pledge to AHCC?
Yes. Pledges may be fulfilled in one of three ways:
- Weekly offering using pledge envelopes
- Lump sum payments
- Stock contributions